News

AVID Property Group, the developer behind the Harmony masterplanned community in Palmview, has once again cemented its commitment to supporting locals – announcing the recipients for its annual Community Sponsorship and Grants Program.

Designed to foster local community groups and create lasting connections, the grant program plays an important role in supporting Harmony residents and shaping the wider Sunshine Coast community.

One of Harmony’s 2021 grant recipients is Creativity Australia, who will use the funds to support the establishment of an inclusive community choir on the Sunshine Coast through its With One Voice program.

Bridging the gap between those experiencing disadvantage and those who are more fortunate, the With One Voice program currently comprises of more than 30 choirs across Australia, building a supportive network and connecting people to brighter futures – one voice at a time.

Creativity Australia Business and Operations Manager Nathan Lange said the With One Voice program is building a happier, healthier and more inclusive community by using singing as a tool for social inclusion, skills, network development and wellbeing.

“Loneliness and the depression that accompanies it is the global epidemic of our era,” Mr Lange said.

“Statistics continue to show that two in five people feel socially isolated and unheard, which is where singing comes in, proving particularly beneficial for mental health and wellbeing.

“Our vision at Creativity Australia is to break down stigmas, welcoming anyone and everyone – those of all ages, from different backgrounds, faiths and walks of life – who can come together every week and rehearse under professional conductors, enjoy a meal and participate in our program.

“As we establish our first With One Voice choir on the Sunshine Coast, the support from Harmony through their grants program will allow us to pay for a conductor and choir incidentals throughout our first year, as we work to establish a membership program and income model.

“We aim for the choir to be self-sustaining and viable for years to come through member donations, wider philanthropy and local business support like that of Harmony’s, and we can’t wait to begin to welcome members as we continue to break down silos and use singing as a tool to bridge gaps.”

AVID General Manager Queensland Bruce Harper said the program was specifically designed to help the local Sunshine Coast community grow and thrive.

“We know that many community clubs and groups have done it tough over the past 24 months, with financial strain, lower than usual participation and restrictions due to social distancing requirements – that’s why we want to continue to give back and support our wider community,” Mr Harper said.

“Since our Community Sponsorships and Grants Program started more than three years ago at Harmony, we have invested more than $570,000 into local community initiatives and activities – helping to create a vibrant community for our residents and locals.

“This year, we are excited to be able to award four grants to some amazing local business and groups in and around our growing Harmony community, including sport, education and the arts.

“We are looking forward to strengthening Harmony’s ties with the local community and continuing our goal of fostering lasting connections with local community groups important to our residents.”

Harmony’s 2021 Community Sponsorship and Grant recipients include:
Palmview State Primary School: The prep to year 6 school will be constructing and installing a chicken coop to complement its already existing Stephanie Alexander Kitchen Garden, providing additional learning opportunities for students.

Chancellor Park Soccer Club: The local soccer club – with 300 junior members and 80 senior members – will be using their grant to enhance security at the Palmview Sports Complex clubhouse.

Palmview State Special School: As part of the Palmview Learning Community, Palmview State Special School will launch an inclusive playgroup for children aged 0 to 4 years old for the local community.

Creativity Australia: Joining more than 30 With One Voice choirs across Australia, Creativity Australia will establish a Sunshine Coast community choir for locals of all ages.